A control office is an entity that plays a significant role before, during, and after the construction work is carried out. It may be mandatory for certain sites and optional for others under certain conditions. We will explore in detail what a control office is and its main missions.
What is a control office?
A control office is a company that supports the project owner, whether public or private, by intervening in construction projects. This particularly concerns the following types of buildings:
- establishments receiving the public that can accommodate more than 300 people;
- Buildings whose height exceeds 28 meters above ground level;
- Buildings located in seismic zones where the lowest floor is more than 8 meters above ground: buildings with more than three floors, health establishments, and buildings located in seismic zones 2, 3, 4, and 5;
- Industrial buildings;
- Non-industrial buildings presenting specific configurations such as cantilever elements, beams, special foundations, etc.
The main mission of a control office
The main mission of a control office is to prevent technical risks associated with construction work. It also intervenes to ensure compliance with current regulations.
Common missions of a control office
On a site where technical control is mandatory, the main missions of the control office are the STI mission (Technical Surveillance Mission) and the L & LE missions.
STI Mission
The mission of the control office consists of verifying the compliance of installations and equipment components with current regulations. The controller particularly checks the design of the lighting, calibration dimensions, fire resistance of entrance doors, etc.
L and LE Missions
This involves verifying the solidity of existing structures and works to ensure their longevity: materials used, regular site visits, foundations, etc. The control office also evaluates accessibility for people with disabilities during the design: ramps, exits, parking spaces…
The importance of a control office in a construction project
Calling upon a control office presents several advantages for the project owner:
- It helps to limit technical risks related to construction;
- It contributes to the improvement of the quality of the works thanks to its expertise;
- It supports compliance with the deadlines and budgets set for the work;
- It contributes to compliance with current standards and regulations.
The intervention of a control office in a construction project guarantees better control of the site, with works carried out according to the rules of the art and in compliance with legislation. It also helps to secure the project in the long term and avoid potential inconveniences related to defects or non-compliance.
This role of a control office is essential in any construction project, whether it involves residential, commercial, or industrial buildings. Thanks to its mission of preventing technical risks and verifying compliance with regulations, it actively contributes to the realization of quality works, adapted to the needs and expectations of clients.
If you are planning a construction project, therefore consider this important step in your organization and engage a competent control office to ensure the success of your site.